The approach to the Lodge - either by the road, or taking the alley between Heidi's Restaurant and CVS pharmacy - can give a person pause: at best, humble, at worst, dumpy. HOWEVER, these looks are definitely deceiving.
I stayed solo (friend cancelled) in a double queen, but have booked a single queen for next time. There is a great variety of rooms (including with kitchens), as well as spa packages, to meet the needs of just about everyone. The room was cozy, and the balcony view spectacular. Also, if you book on the 2nd floor, you will have access to both sauna and the Elements Spa (a separate but related business) without ever having to take stairs. The first floor, though, will give you the beach just a few steps away, and the third floor would be even more private and quiet. Exterior entrances and keys give it a rustic feel, and the lobby/breakfast room was welcoming and had a computer; wi-fi access is also available. Finally, the staff was very friendly and accommodating.
The location of the Lodge is fantastic - just a stoplight away from Ski Run Road (Heavenly), and about 1 mile after that from the casinos, if that's what you're looking for. There are lots of restaurants and a Safeway within walking distance, some of them accessible by walking along the beach (including the Tahoe Queen paddle boat). Safety didn't seem to be a concern at all.
My only complaints: I didn't find the bed that comfy, and a TV guide would have been helpful. FYI, my room had a DVD player, so keep that in mind as an option for room-based entertainment...
- Lakeshore Hotel Lake Tahoe
- Lakeshore Lake Tahoe
